Anesthesia Technologist Practice Exam

What would be a recommended action if a patient with a compromised airway cannot be intubated?

1. Continue attempts with the same equipment

2. Administer supplemental oxygen

3. Use the fiberoptic intubation approach

4. Perform a tracheostomy immediately

The correct answer is: Use the fiberoptic intubation approach

In situations where a patient has a compromised airway and traditional intubation attempts are unsuccessful, utilizing the fiberoptic intubation approach is an appropriate and recommended action. This technique involves the use of a flexible fiberoptic scope which allows for visualization of the airway and can facilitate the intubation process in difficult cases. It is particularly beneficial for patients with anatomical variations or obstructions that make conventional intubation challenging. The fiberoptic approach provides a less invasive means of securing the airway compared to other more invasive procedures and carries a lower risk of trauma to the airway structures than methods such as tracheostomy. It allows the anesthesiologist or anesthesia technologist to navigate the anatomy more precisely, which can improve the chances of successful intubation while maintaining patient safety. Other options may not be suitable based on the urgency and potential risks involved in the patient's compromised airway situation. Continuing attempts with the same equipment might not address the underlying issue causing the difficulty in intubation. Administering supplemental oxygen could provide some benefit, but it does not resolve the immediate need for airway control. Performing a tracheostomy, while a definitive airway management solution, is an invasive procedure that may not be appropriate for every case and should be reserved for situations